AInsights Entry for Gamma-Dodecalactone (CAS: 5/7/05)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Gamma-dodecalactone, also known as 5-heptyloxolan-2-one, is a single chemical compound with the CAS number 5/7/05. It is commonly used in the flavor and fragrance industry due to its distinctive sensory properties. The molecular formula for gamma-dodecalactone is C12H22O2, and it has a molecular weight of 198.31 g/mol. This compound is characterized by its lactone functional group, which is crucial for its creamy, peach-like aroma. The presence of the lactone ring is significant in determining its odor profile, contributing to its widespread use in flavor formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Gamma-dodecalactone is renowned for its sweet, creamy, and fruity aroma, reminiscent of peaches and coconut. It is often described as having a rich, velvety character with moderate intensity and good diffusion. The compound serves as an impact note in flavor compositions, providing a realistic and appealing fruity note. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not clearly reported, gamma-dodecalactone is typically used in low concentrations to achieve the desired sensory effect without overpowering other components in a formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Gamma-dodecalactone occurs naturally in various fruits, including peaches, apricots, and plums. It is formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, a process that can occur during the ripening of fruits. This compound is often associated with the "natural flavor" designation due to its presence in these natural sources. Its formation is linked to the breakdown of linoleic acid, which undergoes oxidation and subsequent lactonization to produce gamma-dodecalactone.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

In the flavor industry, gamma-dodecalactone is utilized across various categories, including fruit, dairy, and confectionery flavors. It functions as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and richness of peach and apricot flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.5 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations used in applications requiring a more pronounced fruity note. The compound is relatively stable under typical processing conditions, though it may degrade at high temperatures or extreme pH levels.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Gamma-dodecalactone is employed in fragrance formulations, particularly within fruity and gourmand fragrance families. It acts as a modifier, adding creamy and sweet nuances to compositions. The compound is typically used in trace amounts, contributing to the middle notes of a fragrance. Its moderate volatility allows it to blend well with other fragrance components, providing a lasting fruity impression.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, gamma-dodecalactone is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for use in flavors. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned an FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, gamma-dodecalactone is permitted for use in food and fragrance applications, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also allow its use, aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Gamma-dodecalactone is considered safe for oral exposure in flavor applications, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory authorities. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing, with IFRA guidelines supporting its safe use. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, though occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Gamma-dodecalactone is valued for its ability to impart a natural and creamy fruitiness to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other lactones and fruity esters, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as excessive concentrations can lead to an artificial or cloying effect. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance background realism.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on gamma-dodecalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some variability exists in use levels and sensory thresholds. Known data gaps are minimal, with most information supported by authoritative sources.

Citation hooks: FlavScents

QA Check

• All required sections 1–9 are present
• "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
• Flavor section includes ppm ranges
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America

About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.

Generated 2026-02-13 11:02:14 GMT (p2)